“We don’t have time, no procrastinating, don’t let the discouragement take you off course, that’s not how my people or my generation will go down...this is the loudest way to make your voice heard!”

Taylor Swift surprised everyone with her Instagram post on Sunday, in which she broke her well-documented political silence to come out in favour of the Democrats.

The singer endorsed candidates Phil Breseden for Senate and Jim Cooper for the House of Representatives in her voting state of Tennessee. She also encouraged her 112 million followers to register to vote, writing:

“So many intelligent, thoughtful, self-possessed people have turned 18 in the past two years and now have the right and privilege to make their vote count.

“But first you need to register, which is quick and easy to do,” she added, alongside a link to the vote.org website.

The post had a huge effect and within 24 hours, more than 166,000 people registered to vote shortly before the deadline, with 42% aged between 18-24, officials said.

Swift, 28, also used her acceptance speech for artist of the year at Tuesday evening’s American Music Awards to speak out. “This award and every single award given out tonight were voted on by the people, and you know what else is voted on by the people?” Swift asked the audience.

“It is the midterm elections on November 6th. Get out and vote. I love you guys.”